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Posterior Anatomography rendering highlighting the serratus posterior superior muscle in red
Anatomography / DBCLS, Wikimedia Commons, CC BY-SA 2.1 JP Image reference

Posterior thorax

Serratus posterior superior

Assists elevation and proprioceptive control of the upper ribs during breathing

Origin
Nuchal ligament and spinous processes from C7 through T3
Insertion
Superior borders of ribs two through five
Primary actions
Assists elevation and proprioceptive control of the upper ribs during breathing

Anatomy reference

OpenStax Anatomy and Physiology 2e — Head, Neck, and Back

Open reference

Educational anatomy reference only. This page does not diagnose pain, injury, or movement limitations.

From anatomy to action

Explore the movement, not just the muscle.

A single muscle rarely explains a movement by itself. Use the related movement content to see how this anatomy may contribute, then choose a focused program when you want a complete progression.

Corrective movement strategies and exercises